Rifles and shotguns are two common types of firearms used for various purposes, including hunting and sport shooting. A rifle has a long barrel and is designed to fire a single projectile with high accuracy over long distances. It typically uses rifled barrels, which have grooves that spin the bullet for improved stability and precision. In contrast, a shotgun has a shorter barrel and is designed to fire multiple small pellets, known as shot, or a single slug. This makes shotguns effective for close-range targets, such as birds or small game. Both firearms come in various calibers and styles, catering to different shooting needs and preferences.